Naftusia (Truskavets mineral water)

What it is

Naftusia is a mineral water of a special type: its mineralization is low, almost like that of fresh water, but it contains dissolved organic substances. The Encyclopedia of Modern Ukraine states that organic carbon in such waters can be found in amounts of 10–20 mg/l. This type of water was first discovered in Truskavets, later in Skhidnytsia and in Podillia.

The name comes from oil: in these areas, not only water was extracted, but also 'black gold'. There are no oil impurities in the water, but substances of petroleum origin give it a recognizable taste.

The most famous spring is No. 1 Naftusia in the Kurortny Park near pump room No. 1; since 1984, it has been designated as a hydrological natural monument of local significance. Nearby are other Truskavets springs, mostly named after women: 'Maria', 'Sofia', 'Bronislava', 'Yuzya'.

Naftusia is the name of the type of water and the spring, not a trademark. This page is about the water itself, the springs, and the location, not about a brand. For information on sanatoriums and treatment at the resorts of the region, see the 'Health Improvement' section.

History and name

The healing properties of Truskavets waters were first described by doctor V. Ohko in 1578, according to the Encyclopedia of Modern Ukraine. In 1827, the first facility for therapeutic baths was built in Truskavets, and in 1836, Lviv pharmacist and chemist Teodor Torosevych conducted the first chemical analysis of Naftusia; a boulevard in the city is named in his honor.

By the end of the 19th century, Truskavets was already competing with the German resort of Wiesbaden.

Ingredients and allergens

Contains allergens: none of the 14 major allergens in the traditional recipe
Diet: lenten · vegan · gluten-free · no cooking

Ingredients of the traditional recipe; every cook and every place may do it differently — please ask when ordering. We cannot guarantee the absence of allergens or traces.

How it is made

Naftusia-type springs are located not deep and are naturally weakly protected from pollution, so sanitary protection zones operate around them. The water is consumed in the pump rooms of Truskavets, where it is supplied directly from the springs.

Where it is eaten

The area is approximate and based on the sources below. The dish is cooked outside it too, and ethnographic borders are blurred.

The city of Truskavets (Drohobych district of Lviv region), Kurortny Park; the same type of water is found in Skhidnytsia. The foothills of the Carpathians.

When it is eaten

Occasions: Everyday food

In tradition

Truskavets is a pump room resort: guests come to drink Naftusia at specific times, with their own mugs, as prescribed by a doctor.

Safety

Not a treatment: drink mineral water for therapeutic purposes only on a doctor's advice. Therapeutic-table waters are not intended for unlimited daily consumption; children, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses should only drink after consulting a doctor.

FAQ